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illustration of mastodon silhouette with skeleton and a log hut

The Bone Wars: A Story of Brutal Competition in Early Paleontology

Valley Forge National Historical Park

Special Event
  • Oct 17, 2026 at 3:30 PM
  • Free

The Bone Wars: A Story of Brutal Competition in Early Paleontology

3:30 pm in the Meeting Room at Valley Forge

Liam O'Donnell
Science Educator

Edward Drinker Cope, who analyzed fossils found at the Port Kennedy Bone Cave, is better known for his role in the "Bone Wars," a period of ruthless competition with Othniel C. Marsh that led to lots of underhanded dealings as well as scientific discovery.

In honor of the 17th anniversary of National Fossil Day, Valley Forge National Historical Park is celebrating the amazing Ice Age fossils of Valley Forge with a day of interactive, family-friendly activites and special programs.

More information

Fees

This event is free to attend.

Location

The Meeting Room at Valley Forge is located next to the upper doors of the Visitor Center at Valley Forge.

Latitude and Longitude 40.101349, -75.422833

Schedule

Date:

Oct 17, 2026

Time:

3:30 PM

Duration:

1 hour

Contact Information

Sean Walsh-Haehle
610 783-1099
Contact Us

Event Type

  • Talk
Tags: valley forge, fossil day, talk, edward drinker cope, bone wars